Manual Lymphatic Drainage: Difference between revisions

No edit summary
m (link corrected)
 
(32 intermediate revisions by 6 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
<div class="editorbox">
'''Original Editor''' - [[User:Chew Chee Boon|Chew Chee Boon]] '''Top Contributors''' - {{Special:Contributors/{{FULLPAGENAME}}}}
</div>  
<div class="editorbox">
'''Original Editor''' - [[User:Chew Chee Boon|Chew Chee Boon]] '''Top Contributors''' - {{Special:Contributors/{{FULLPAGENAME}}}}
</div>
== Description  ==
== Description  ==
[[File:Lymphatic system - Kenhub.png|alt=Overview of the lymphatic system|right|frameless|600x600px|Overview of the lymphatic system]]
Manual Lymph drainage (MLD), is a technique developed by the Vodders (Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife, Estrid) in 1936 in Paris for treatment of swollen lymph nodes<ref>Dr Vodder School International. Manual Lymph Drainage History (MLD). Available from: https://vodderschool.com/manual_lymph_drainage_history (Accessed 3 September 2020)</ref>. 


Manual Lymphatic Drainage [MLD] is an unique, gentle type of skin&nbsp;[[Massage|massage]] technique that promotes [[Lymphatic System|lymph]] to drain out of a limb into an area that drains normally. It is mainly used for [[Lymphatic_Obstruction_(Lymphedema)|lymphoedema]].  
Lymphatic diseases, especially [[Lymphoedema|lymphedema]], represent a serious problem in the health community<ref name=":0">Tzani I, Tsichlaki M, Zerva E, Papathanasiou G, Dimakakos E. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326301004_Physiotherapeutic_rehabilitation_of_lymphedema_State-of-the-art Physiotherapeutic rehabilitation of lymphedema]: State-of-the-art. Lymphology. 2018 Jul 2;51(1):1-2.</ref>. 
* In addition to improving lymphatic circulation, MLD also increases [[blood]] flow in deep and superficial veins.<ref name="venous ins">Crisóstomo RS, Candeias MS, Armada-da-Silva PA. Venous flow during manual lymphatic drainage applied to different regions of the lower extremity in people with and without chronic venous insufficiency: a cross-sectional study.Physiotherapy. 2016 Feb 1. pii: S0031-9406(16)00023-7.</ref>
 
MLD is a light, skin-stretching massage that helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid out of the swollen limb. It should not be confused with a traditional massage. MLD is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid. Therapy is applied to your unaffected areas first, making it possible for the fluid to move out of the affected area, or “decongest” the region. MLD helps open the remaining functioning lymph collectors and move protein and fluid into them, as well as to help speed up lymph fluid flow through the lymphatics. 
 
Deep breathing techniques called [[Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises|diaphragmatic breathing]] are usually done at the beginning and end of a therapy session to help open the deep lymphatic pathways. It’s not only relaxing, but it helps increase movement of fluid toward the [[Anatomy of the Human Heart|heart]]<ref>Lymph care [https://www.lymphcareusa.com/patient/therapy-solutions/complete-decongestive-therapy/manual-lymphatic-drainage-mld.html MLD] Available from:https://www.lymphcareusa.com/patient/therapy-solutions/complete-decongestive-therapy/manual-lymphatic-drainage-mld.html (last accessed 17.8.2020)</ref>.
 
Image: Overview of the lymphatic system<ref > Overview of the lymphatic system image - © Kenhub https://www.kenhub.com/en/study/lymphatic-system</ref>
 
MLD:
* The intention behind MLD is to augment the rhythmic contractions and stimulate the lymph nodes to improve their activity in order to reroute stagnant [[Lymphatic System|lymphatic]] fluid<ref name=":0" />. 
* MLD is comprised of four main strokes: stationary circles, scoop technique, pump technique, and rotary technique<ref name=":0" />.
* It is effective as a preventative and postoperative rehabilitation treatment<ref name=":0" />.
* MLD is a  a key component [[Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)|Complete Decongestive Therapy]] (CDT)<ref name="best practice" />. It shows optimal results when it is combined with the other CDT elements<ref name=":0" />.
* MLD also increases [[blood]] flow in deep and superficial veins<ref name="venous ins">Crisóstomo RS, Candeias MS, Armada-da-Silva PA. Venous flow during manual lymphatic drainage applied to different regions of the lower extremity in people with and without chronic venous insufficiency: a cross-sectional study.Physiotherapy. 2016 Feb 1. pii: S0031-9406(16)00023-7.</ref>.
* MLD may be useful in conditions such as post-traumatic and post-surgical edema<ref name=":0" /> and [https://www.physio-pedia.com/The_Role_of_the_Physiotherapist_in_Palliative_Care_for_People_With_Lymphoedema palliative care]<ref name=":0" />.


== Techniques  ==
== Techniques  ==
There are various techniques for MLD including the Vodder, Földi, Leduc or Casley-Smith methods.


There are a various techniques for MLD including the Vodder, Földi, Leduc or Casley-Smith methods.&nbsp; The most appropriate techniques, optimal frequency and indications for MLD, as well as the benefits of treatment, all remain to be clarified, but the different methods have several aspects in common <ref name="best practice">Lymphoedema Framework. Best Practice for the Management of Lymphoedema. International consensus. London: MEP Ltd, 2006.</ref>, as:
MLD is recommended as a component of [[Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)|CDT,]] but is often used in combination with other treatments<ref name=":0" />. MLD in isolation is effective but a combination of the parts of CDT is optimal<ref name=":0" />. CDT has been shown to be effective in reducing lymphedema volume and improving quality of life patient mobility<ref name=":0" />. &nbsp; 


*Usually performed with the patient in the lying position, unless for lymphoedema of the head and neck
It often takes many hours of training in MLD, combined with years of hands-on experience, for a lymphedema therapist to become truly skilled.
 
The most appropriate techniques, optimal frequency and indications for MLD, as well as the benefits of treatment, all remain to be clarified, but the different methods have several aspects in common, including the following<ref name="best practice">[https://www.woundsinternational.com/resources/details/best-practice-for-the-management-of-lymphoedema-an-international-consensus Lymphoedema Framework. Best Practice for the Management of Lymphoedema. International consensus.] London: MEP Ltd, 2006.</ref> :
 
*Usually performed with the patient in the lying position  
*Starts and ends with deep [[Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises|diaphragmatic breathing]]  
*Starts and ends with deep [[Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises|diaphragmatic breathing]]  
*The unaffected lymph nodes and region of the body are treated first  
*The unaffected lymph nodes and region of the body are treated first  
*Moves proximal to distal to drain the affected areas  
*Moves proximal to distal to drain the affected areas  
*Slow and rhythmical movements&nbsp;  
*Slow and rhythmical movements&nbsp;  
*Uses gentle pressure
*Uses gentle pressure - this is essential
'''Different Approaches'''
The video below gives a very brief explanation of Manual Lymphatic Drainage
{{#ev:youtube|dT6rAL4-D14 | 300}}<ref>National Lymphedema Network. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD). Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dT6rAL4-D14[last accessed 01/04/2022]</ref>
'''Different Approaches'''<ref name="Williams">Williams A. [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Anne-Williams-4/publication/44683866_Manual_lymphatic_drainage_Exploring_the_history_and_evidence_base/links/547c94eb0cf2cfe203c1db71/Manual-lymphatic-drainage-Exploring-the-history-and-evidence-base.pdf Manual lymphatic drainage: exploring the history and evidence base]. British Journal of Community Nursing. 2010 Apr;15(Sup3):S18-24.</ref>
* Vodder - Different kinds of hand motions are used on the skin depending on the part of the body being treated. It also includes edema movements at fibrotic areas. The different motions include  "pump", "scoop", "stationery circle", "rotary" and "thumb circle".
* Foldi - Based on the Vodder technique, this method lays emphasis on a "thrust" and "relaxation" phase. 'Encircling strokes' are included in this approach.
* Casley-Smith - This method involves use of gentle and slow effleurage movements with the side of the hand. The effleurage movements are performed over the "watershed" areas between lymphotomes.
* Leduc - It involves use of  "call up" (or enticing) and "reabsorption" movements which reflects how lymph is absorbed first in the initial lymphatics and then into larger lymphatics.


1. Vodder
== Indications  ==
[[File:Lymphoedema red leg.png|right|frameless]]MLD is indicated in primary or secondary [[Lymphatic Obstruction (Lymphedema)|lymphedema&nbsp;]]<nowiki/>in the following situations:
*When there is swelling at a limb's root<ref name="best practice" />
*When trunk and midline edema is present<ref name="best practice" />
*When comfort and pain relief is required but other therapies are no longer appropriate - palliative<ref name="best practice" />
*As an adjunct to pain management<ref name="best practice" />
*As a preventative treatment<ref name=":0" />
*Chronic venous insufficiency <ref name="venous ins" />


Different kinds of hand motions are used on the body depending on the part being treated. It also includes treatment of fibrosis


2. Foldi
MLD may also be helpful in the below situations:
*It may be used as a complement treatment for patients with psychological stress. <ref>Jung-Myo S, Sung-Joong K. Manual Lymph Drainage Attenuates Frontal EEG Asymmetry in Subjects with Psychological Stress: A Preliminary Study. J Phys Ther Sci. 2014 Apr; 26(4): 529–531.</ref><ref>Shim JM, Yeun YR, Kim HY, Kim SJ. [https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jpts/29/3/29_jpts-2016-900/_pdf Effects of manual lymph drainage for abdomen on the brain activity of subjects with psychological stress]. Journal of physical therapy science. 2017;29(3):491-4.</ref>
*It (craniocervical MLD) may be effective for reducing intracranial pressure in people with severe cerebral diseases.<ref>Roth C, Stitz H, Roth C, Ferbert A, Deinsberger W, Pahl R et. al. [https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Holger-Engel/publication/303687614_Craniocervical_manual_lymphatic_drainage_and_its_impact_on_intracranial_pressure_-_a_pilot_study/links/5c66682d45851582c3e98103/Craniocervical-manual-lymphatic-drainage-and-its-impact-on-intracranial-pressure-a-pilot-study.pdf Craniocervical manual lymphatic drainage and its impact on intracranial pressure - a pilot study]. Eur J Neurol. 2016 Sep;23(9):1441-6.</ref>
== Contraindications ==


Based on the Vodder technique, this method lays emphasis on thrust and releaxation. It helps in management of edema through 'encircling strokes'.
'''General contraindications'''<ref name="best practice" />''':'''
 
* Acute cellulitis/erysipelas
3. Casley-Smith
* Severe cardiac insufficiency
 
* Hepatic cirrhosis with abdominal fluid (ascites)  
This method involves use of small and gentle effleurage movements with the side of the hand.
* Unstable hypertension
 
* Renal failure
4. Leduc
* Untreated tuberculosis or malaria
 
* Superior vena cava obstruction
It involves use of special 'call up' (or enticing) and 'reabsorption' movements which reflet how lymph is absorbed first in the initial lymphatics and then into larger lymphatics.<ref name="Williams">Williams AF. Manual lymphatic drainage: Exploring the history and evidence base. British Journal of Community Nursing. 2010;15(4):S18-24. DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2010.15.Sup3.47365</ref>
 
== Indications  ==


*[[File:Lymphoedema red leg.png|right|frameless]]Primary or secondary [[Lymphatic Obstruction (Lymphedema)|lymphedema&nbsp;]]
*Lipedema
*Phlebo-lymphostatic edema
*Postoperative edema
*Posttraumatic edema&nbsp;<ref>Michael Földi, Roman Strößenreuther. (2003). Basic Principles of Manual Lymph Drainage. In R. S. Michael Földi, FOUNDATIONS OF MANUAL LYMPH DRAINAGE, 3rd ed (pp. 48-49). St. Louis Missouri: Elsevier Mosby.</ref>
*Chronic venous insufficiency <ref name="venous ins" />
*[[Palliative Care Competence Framework for Physiotherapists|Palliative care]]: Provision of comfort and pain relief when other physical therapies are no longer appropriate <ref name="best practice" />
*This technique may be used as a complement in therapies for patients with stress. <ref>Jung-Myo S, Sung-Joong K. Manual Lymph Drainage Attenuates Frontal EEG Asymmetry in Subjects with Psychological Stress: A Preliminary Study. J Phys Ther Sci. 2014 Apr; 26(4): 529–531.</ref>
*May be effective for reducing intracranial pressure in severe [[Cerebral Palsy - The Causes|cerebral]] diseases.<ref>Roth C, Stitz H, Roth C, Ferbert A, Deinsberger W, Pahl R et. al. Craniocervical manual lymphatic drainage and its impact on intracranial pressure - a pilot study. Eur J Neurol. 2016 Sep;23(9):1441-6.</ref>
== Contraindications  ==


'''Absolute Contraindication:'''  
'''Local contraindications'''<ref name="best practice" />''':'''  
*Untreated thyroid dysfunction
*Metastases
*Primary tumours


*Decompensated cardiac insufficiency
== Principles of MLD ==
*Cardiac&nbsp;edema&nbsp;
*[[Heart Failure|Congestive heart failure]]
*Acute inflammation caused by pathogenic germs (bacteria,&nbsp;fungi, viruses). The germs could be spread by the manual lymph drainage, with resulting blood poisoning (sepsis).&nbsp;
*Acute renal failure


Condition stated above must not be treated with manual lymph drainage.  
*The [[Integumentary System|skin]] is stretched in specific directions using hand movements to promote variations in interstitial pressure without the use of oils<ref name=":0" /><ref name="Williams" />.


'''Relative Contraindication:'''
*Slow repetitive movements are used which incorporate a resting phase to allow the skin to return to its normal position<ref name=":0" /><ref name="Williams" />.


*Malignant lymphedema caused by active cancer<ref name="Moffatt">Moffatt C, Doherty D, Morgan P. Lymphoedema framework. Best Practice for Management of Lymphoedema. International Consensus. London: MEP Limited;2006.58</ref><br>
*The pressure is varied according to the underlying tissue with the aim to promote lymphatic drainage<ref name="Williams" />. The pressure however is softer than in traditional massage<ref name="Williams" />.


== Principles  ==
*Areas of fibrosclerosis are treated using deeper and firmer movements in combination with compression therapy<ref name="Williams" />.


*The skin is stretched in specific directions using hand movements to promote variations in interstitial pressure without the use of oils.
*The lymphatic drainage starts centrally and proximally<ref name=":0" /><ref name="Williams" /> with treatments usually starting around the neck<ref name="Williams" />.  


*Slow repetitive movements are used which incorporate a resting phase allowing skin to return to its normal position.
*Functional and healthy lymph nodes are treated first<ref name="Williams" />.


*The pressure is varied according to the underlying tissue with the aim to promote lymphatic drainage.
*There is emphasis on treatment of anterior and posterior trunk in the early phases before the swollen limb is treated<ref name="Williams" />.


*Areas of fibrosis are treated using deeper and firmer movements in combination with Compression therapy.
*Breathing techniques are combined with pressure by the therapist's hands to promote drainage of deep abdominal lymph nodes and vessels<ref name="Williams" />.


*The lymphatic drainage strats centrally and proximally with treatments usually starting around the neck.
*Limb mobilization and relaxation techniques are often combined with MLD.<ref name="Williams" />


*Functional and healthy lymph nodes are treated first, followed by proximal and contralateral areas and then ipsilateral and lymphoedematus areas.
== Physiotherapist-administered MLD ==
Physiotherapy for patients with lymphedema can only be successful if the physiotherapist is specifically educated, trained and experienced in each method<ref name=":0" />.


*There is emphasis on treatment of anterior and posterior trunk in the early phases before the swollen limb is treated.
It is often given as part of [[Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)|Complete Decongestive Therapy]] (CDT) which has two phases  - phase I and II<ref name=":0" />. MLD is performed in phase I and II, but phase II has more MLD<ref name=":0" />. The two phases consist of the following:


*Breathing techniques used are combined with pressure by the therapist's hands which promotes drainage of deep abdominal lymph nodes.
'''Phase I'''
* MLD<ref name=":0" />
* lymphological compression bandages<ref name=":0" />
* remedial exercises<ref name=":0" />
* physiotherapy<ref name=":0" /><ref name="best practice" /> where patients are struggling with mobility or joint mobility/function<ref name="best practice" />
* Education regarding self-management and skin care<ref name=":0" />


*Limb mobilization and relaxation techniques are often combined with lymphatic drainage.<ref name="Williams" />
'''Phase II'''
* MLD<ref name=":0" />
* wearing of fitted compression stockings<ref name=":0" />


== Resources ==
== Resources ==
see videos on this page re techniques [[Lymphatic Obstruction (Lymphedema)|Lymphodema]]
* Browse videos on this page regarding techniques on [[Lymphoedema|Lymphedema]] management.
* [https://vodderschool.com/manual_lymph_drainage_history Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) History]  


== References  ==
== References  ==

Latest revision as of 14:30, 9 January 2023

Description[edit | edit source]

Overview of the lymphatic system

Manual Lymph drainage (MLD), is a technique developed by the Vodders (Dr. Emil Vodder and his wife, Estrid) in 1936 in Paris for treatment of swollen lymph nodes[1].

Lymphatic diseases, especially lymphedema, represent a serious problem in the health community[2].

MLD is a light, skin-stretching massage that helps promote the movement of lymphatic fluid out of the swollen limb. It should not be confused with a traditional massage. MLD is specifically focused on the lymph vessels to help the flow of lymphatic fluid. Therapy is applied to your unaffected areas first, making it possible for the fluid to move out of the affected area, or “decongest” the region. MLD helps open the remaining functioning lymph collectors and move protein and fluid into them, as well as to help speed up lymph fluid flow through the lymphatics.

Deep breathing techniques called diaphragmatic breathing are usually done at the beginning and end of a therapy session to help open the deep lymphatic pathways. It’s not only relaxing, but it helps increase movement of fluid toward the heart[3].

Image: Overview of the lymphatic system[4]

MLD:

  • The intention behind MLD is to augment the rhythmic contractions and stimulate the lymph nodes to improve their activity in order to reroute stagnant lymphatic fluid[2].
  • MLD is comprised of four main strokes: stationary circles, scoop technique, pump technique, and rotary technique[2].
  • It is effective as a preventative and postoperative rehabilitation treatment[2].
  • MLD is a a key component Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT)[5]. It shows optimal results when it is combined with the other CDT elements[2].
  • MLD also increases blood flow in deep and superficial veins[6].
  • MLD may be useful in conditions such as post-traumatic and post-surgical edema[2] and palliative care[2].

Techniques[edit | edit source]

There are various techniques for MLD including the Vodder, Földi, Leduc or Casley-Smith methods.

MLD is recommended as a component of CDT, but is often used in combination with other treatments[2]. MLD in isolation is effective but a combination of the parts of CDT is optimal[2]. CDT has been shown to be effective in reducing lymphedema volume and improving quality of life patient mobility[2].  

It often takes many hours of training in MLD, combined with years of hands-on experience, for a lymphedema therapist to become truly skilled.

The most appropriate techniques, optimal frequency and indications for MLD, as well as the benefits of treatment, all remain to be clarified, but the different methods have several aspects in common, including the following[5] :

  • Usually performed with the patient in the lying position
  • Starts and ends with deep diaphragmatic breathing
  • The unaffected lymph nodes and region of the body are treated first
  • Moves proximal to distal to drain the affected areas
  • Slow and rhythmical movements 
  • Uses gentle pressure - this is essential

The video below gives a very brief explanation of Manual Lymphatic Drainage

[7]

Different Approaches[8]

  • Vodder - Different kinds of hand motions are used on the skin depending on the part of the body being treated. It also includes edema movements at fibrotic areas. The different motions include "pump", "scoop", "stationery circle", "rotary" and "thumb circle".
  • Foldi - Based on the Vodder technique, this method lays emphasis on a "thrust" and "relaxation" phase. 'Encircling strokes' are included in this approach.
  • Casley-Smith - This method involves use of gentle and slow effleurage movements with the side of the hand. The effleurage movements are performed over the "watershed" areas between lymphotomes.
  • Leduc - It involves use of "call up" (or enticing) and "reabsorption" movements which reflects how lymph is absorbed first in the initial lymphatics and then into larger lymphatics.

Indications[edit | edit source]

Lymphoedema red leg.png

MLD is indicated in primary or secondary lymphedema in the following situations:

  • When there is swelling at a limb's root[5]
  • When trunk and midline edema is present[5]
  • When comfort and pain relief is required but other therapies are no longer appropriate - palliative[5]
  • As an adjunct to pain management[5]
  • As a preventative treatment[2]
  • Chronic venous insufficiency [6]


MLD may also be helpful in the below situations:

  • It may be used as a complement treatment for patients with psychological stress. [9][10]
  • It (craniocervical MLD) may be effective for reducing intracranial pressure in people with severe cerebral diseases.[11]

Contraindications[edit | edit source]

General contraindications[5]:

  • Acute cellulitis/erysipelas
  • Severe cardiac insufficiency
  • Hepatic cirrhosis with abdominal fluid (ascites)
  • Unstable hypertension
  • Renal failure
  • Untreated tuberculosis or malaria
  • Superior vena cava obstruction


Local contraindications[5]:

  • Untreated thyroid dysfunction
  • Metastases
  • Primary tumours

Principles of MLD[edit | edit source]

  • The skin is stretched in specific directions using hand movements to promote variations in interstitial pressure without the use of oils[2][8].
  • Slow repetitive movements are used which incorporate a resting phase to allow the skin to return to its normal position[2][8].
  • The pressure is varied according to the underlying tissue with the aim to promote lymphatic drainage[8]. The pressure however is softer than in traditional massage[8].
  • Areas of fibrosclerosis are treated using deeper and firmer movements in combination with compression therapy[8].
  • The lymphatic drainage starts centrally and proximally[2][8] with treatments usually starting around the neck[8].
  • Functional and healthy lymph nodes are treated first[8].
  • There is emphasis on treatment of anterior and posterior trunk in the early phases before the swollen limb is treated[8].
  • Breathing techniques are combined with pressure by the therapist's hands to promote drainage of deep abdominal lymph nodes and vessels[8].
  • Limb mobilization and relaxation techniques are often combined with MLD.[8]

Physiotherapist-administered MLD[edit | edit source]

Physiotherapy for patients with lymphedema can only be successful if the physiotherapist is specifically educated, trained and experienced in each method[2].

It is often given as part of Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) which has two phases - phase I and II[2]. MLD is performed in phase I and II, but phase II has more MLD[2]. The two phases consist of the following:

Phase I

  • MLD[2]
  • lymphological compression bandages[2]
  • remedial exercises[2]
  • physiotherapy[2][5] where patients are struggling with mobility or joint mobility/function[5]
  • Education regarding self-management and skin care[2]

Phase II

  • MLD[2]
  • wearing of fitted compression stockings[2]

Resources[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Dr Vodder School International. Manual Lymph Drainage History (MLD). Available from: https://vodderschool.com/manual_lymph_drainage_history (Accessed 3 September 2020)
  2. 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 2.20 2.21 2.22 2.23 Tzani I, Tsichlaki M, Zerva E, Papathanasiou G, Dimakakos E. Physiotherapeutic rehabilitation of lymphedema: State-of-the-art. Lymphology. 2018 Jul 2;51(1):1-2.
  3. Lymph care MLD Available from:https://www.lymphcareusa.com/patient/therapy-solutions/complete-decongestive-therapy/manual-lymphatic-drainage-mld.html (last accessed 17.8.2020)
  4. Overview of the lymphatic system image - © Kenhub https://www.kenhub.com/en/study/lymphatic-system
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 5.8 5.9 Lymphoedema Framework. Best Practice for the Management of Lymphoedema. International consensus. London: MEP Ltd, 2006.
  6. 6.0 6.1 Crisóstomo RS, Candeias MS, Armada-da-Silva PA. Venous flow during manual lymphatic drainage applied to different regions of the lower extremity in people with and without chronic venous insufficiency: a cross-sectional study.Physiotherapy. 2016 Feb 1. pii: S0031-9406(16)00023-7.
  7. National Lymphedema Network. Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD). Available from: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dT6rAL4-D14[last accessed 01/04/2022]
  8. 8.00 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 8.05 8.06 8.07 8.08 8.09 8.10 8.11 Williams A. Manual lymphatic drainage: exploring the history and evidence base. British Journal of Community Nursing. 2010 Apr;15(Sup3):S18-24.
  9. Jung-Myo S, Sung-Joong K. Manual Lymph Drainage Attenuates Frontal EEG Asymmetry in Subjects with Psychological Stress: A Preliminary Study. J Phys Ther Sci. 2014 Apr; 26(4): 529–531.
  10. Shim JM, Yeun YR, Kim HY, Kim SJ. Effects of manual lymph drainage for abdomen on the brain activity of subjects with psychological stress. Journal of physical therapy science. 2017;29(3):491-4.
  11. Roth C, Stitz H, Roth C, Ferbert A, Deinsberger W, Pahl R et. al. Craniocervical manual lymphatic drainage and its impact on intracranial pressure - a pilot study. Eur J Neurol. 2016 Sep;23(9):1441-6.